Eating olives whole or using olive oil for certain meals may help protect against various health problems.
Health Benefits
The vitamins and antioxidants found in olives may provide important health benefits. For example, some studies have shown that olives may protect against osteoporosis, in which bones become brittle or weak.
Olives are also rich in vitamin E, which can improve skin health and help your immune system.
In addition, olives may provide health benefits like:
Heart Health
Numerous studies have shown that consuming olive oil, especially the extra-virgin variety, may reduce the risk of heart disease and mortality in people who have a high risk of this condition.
Cancer Risk Reduction
Olives contain the compound oleocanthal, which studies have shown can kill cancer cells. Other studies have shown a link between consuming olive oil and reducing the risk of cancers, including breast cancer.
Lower Risk and Treatment of Cognitive Diseases
The oleocanthal in olives and olive oil is linked to a reduced risk for Alzheimer’s disease and other brain-related diseases. This compound also increases the activity of the drug donepezil, which is used to treat dementia.
Diabetes Prevention
Research shows a link between consuming olive oil and preventing type 2 diabetes by helping the body regulate glucose (sugar). Unregulated glucose can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes.
Nutrition
Olives are rich in vitamin E and other antioxidants, which may help reduce the risk of health conditions like cancer, diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.
